Carbon Emissions

During 2013, we conducted a review to determine whether the following elements would necessitate a baseline restatement for the 2010 CO2 data:

Structural changes (acquisitions and disposals)

Changes in the calculation methodology

Improvements in the accuracy of emission factors or activity data

Following detailed analysis of each area, we concluded that, based on available information, the cumulative effect of structural changes or other changes have not reached a level that would trigger a baseline restatement. We will, however, continue to monitor this situation in relation to future acquisitions. In addition, as part of the acquisition process, a procedural change will be made to ensure that the baseline data (2010) and data from subsequent years is available as part of the due diligence process. This will facilitate and simplify the process of reviewing the cumulative effect of acquisitions on reported emissions and other data.

This webpage includes information on “G4” General Standard Disclosure G4-22. See Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) for further details on the alignment of the Sustainability Report to “G4”.

Although we have noticed a decrease in our Scope 1 and 3 emissions, our overall CO2 emissions have increased by 9.9%. This is due to an increase in our electricity consumption which can be explained by business growth in certain affiliates, especially emerging markets, as well as acquisitions conducted in 2013 and 2012. The relocation of one of our offices has also had an impact on the reporting of this figure. Our scope 1 emissions, particularly those deriving from non-transport fuel consumption, have decreased due to a greater reliance on electricity rather than diesel generators as the national grid supply in some emerging markets has become more reliable.

Scope 3 emissions have decreased by 7.4% despite economic growth of around 6%. This figure reflects more accurate reporting following sustainability audits carried out in 2013. Other factors explaining the decrease are a reduction in certain business activities as well as greater awareness of the costs associated with travel.

Overall CO2 emissions increased by around 9.9% in both 2012 and 2013. However, the number of Full Time Equivalent employees (FTEs) did not rise as much in 2013 as in 2012, explaining the increase in the CO2 per FTE ratio.